This Kathak maestro carries forwardfamily legacy with care, compassion

Lucknow: Saumya (4), daughter of a rickshaw-puller, was passionate about dancing and would often dream of putting on ‘ghungroos' (anklet bells) and performing in front of an audience.
However, it was next to impossible for her father to afford dance classes for her due to the financial condition of the family.
Her happiness knew no bounds when she came to know about Kalka Bindadin Deori at Gwynne road, where Kathak exponent Pt Ram Mohan Maharaj, gives free dance classes to poor children. Her wish came true when Pt Ram Mohan Maharaj agreed to take Saumya under his wing.
Like Saumya, at least 25 other children, including five boys, learn Kathak from Ram Mohan Maharaj, who belongs to the seventh generation of the illustrious family of Kalka-Bindadin Gharana.
He was initiated in Kathak dance at the age of six by his father, legendary Pt Sambhu Maharaj, and after his passing away, he was trained by Pt Birju Maharaj.
He became a professional dancer at the age of 18 and started giving kathak training at 20.
Most of the children taking dance classes belong to poor families from slum areas and often come to the class empty stomach as their parents can only afford one meal a day.
"He not only teaches Kathak to us but also provides us with food. We often enjoy pizza, chowmein, samosa, chaat, bhel puri, chips and cold drinks," a student at the dance class said.
"By providing free training and food to poor children, I am paying tribute to my forefathers. I am fortunate that God has given me this opportunity to do two profound works together. I am taking forward the legacy of my family," Pt Ram Mohan said.
Children not only learn the nuances of Kathak but also have a great time with their master.
"I do not treat them as my students but like my own children. I behave like a child with them and imitate their actions. They giggle at my jokes and are very comfortable with me. They love me a lot and share their problems with me," he said.
Ram Mohan Maharaj has performed in several cultural festivals in India and abroad.
He has performed in Khajuraho festival, Sarat Chandrika Mahotsav and Kalidas Mahotsav, Gwalior, in India and has also given performances in New Zealand, South Africa, Germany, France, Singapore, Mauritius, United Kingdom, France and Holland.
He has choreographed many ballets and dance dramas.